Boosting Community Capacity

The over-50s are being encouraged to plan for their future and the community will be helped to become better equipped to support them when vulnerable. To this end Buckinghamshire County Council (BCC) and Chiltern District Council (CDC) are together launching a three-year project with a workshop on Tuesday 20 January at the Douglas McMinn Centre. The project will assist individuals over 50 and their families to make more informed decisions about their later life; the promotion of good health and independence into old age; and informal care networks and services in local parishes and community groups. They want to find out who should be involved and how best to coordinate the work; what services are lacking or in need of support; what people need to consider when planning for later life; what opportunities people want; what information people need and how to provide it. One aim would be to develop such a community spirit that people would look out for their neighbors and support opportunities to volunteer; get fit and take exercise; support neighborhood forums; and participate in community activities. If you have any input call Martin Holt, Head of Health and Housing, Chiltern District Council on 01494 732055 email mholt@chiltern.gov.uk.